Selkirk Fire Rescue and EMS announced in a press release Tuesday that Westside, Northside and Sagle Fire Districts will no longer conduct fire sign-offs for single-family residential construction projects, effective May 29, 2026.  

The process change comes after years of working with Bonner County to establish an efficient system for the sign-offs, according to fire chief Jeff Armstrong. The change will be in effect until a formal agreement can be established between the county and the fire district.  

“For the past two years, I have worked to address concerns with the current process and advocate for a clearer, more efficient system that appropriately applies fire code requirements while reducing unnecessary burdens on residents. Despite ongoing discussions, key issues regarding authority, scope, process, and liability remain unresolved. Projects such as lean-tos, minor remodels, decks, and retaining walls do not have fire district implications, and requiring a fire signoff only leads to increased cost, time, and frustration,” Armstrong said. 

The district said requests received at the end of the business day May 28 will still be processed and encourages anyone with questions to reach out to the Bonner County Planning Department for guidance on an updated process.  

“Our fire districts remain committed to supporting public safety and working cooperatively with the county toward a fair, clearly defined, and efficient process for our community,” Armstrong said.